The Medieval Quarter Manchester Walking Tour
Ric Frankland
Led by an architect who’s passionate about Manchester’s past and future, this walking tour explores the city through the lens of its buildings, streets and hidden stories. Unlike standard sightseeing tours, we look at why Manchester looks the way it does… how post-war planning, industrial heritage and modern regeneration have shaped the city you see today. Expect original photos, architectural insights and thoughtful discussion rather than a rehearsed script. Each tour is relaxed, conversational and designed for anyone curious about design, place-making and how cities evolve.
Departure Point
- We'll meet outside Harvey Nichols, on the terrace area opposite Shambles Square - I usually have a small yellow flag with me.
Please note the pointer on the map might not show the exact location.
Return Details
- We end the tour inside the Royal Exchange (not too far from our starting point) where there are toilets and a small cafe.
Duration
2 hours
Languages Available
- Human tour guide - English
Points of Interest
Stop At: The Shambles
1-3 Cathedral Gates, Manchester
Timber-framed buildings that hint at Manchester’s medieval marketplace.
Duration: 10 minutes
Stop At: Chetham's Library
Long Millgate, Manchester
A medieval charitable foundation still shaping young lives today (we'll walk around the perimeter, but won't go inside the library)
Duration: 15 minutes
Stop At: Royal Exchange Theatre
St. Anns Square, Manchester
From global cotton trading to a single blast that reshaped the city.
Duration: 10 minutes
Stop At: Hanging Bridge
Hanging Bridge, Manchester, England M3
A long-lost river crossing once used by monks, traders, and townsfolk.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: Manchester Cathedral
Victoria Street, Off Deansgate, Manchester
Power, faith, and trade carved into stone at the heart of the town.
Duration: 10 minutes
Additional Information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Insights into Manchester’s architectural and urban evolution
- Small group size for an interactive experience
- Guided walking tour led by a qualified architect
- Follow-up email with key references and recommended reading
- Use of archival maps, photos and diagrams during the tour
Voucher Info
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
The tour identified in this promotion is made available through Viator. Groupon is not affiliated with or sponsored by the Ric Frankland in connection with this deal. Please contact Groupon customer service for all inquiries related to this offer. Inquiries placed to Viator will be directed back to Groupon.
This offer is not eligible for promo codes.
Led by an architect who’s passionate about Manchester’s past and future, this walking tour explores the city through the lens of its buildings, streets and hidden stories. Unlike standard sightseeing tours, we look at why Manchester looks the way it does… how post-war planning, industrial heritage and modern regeneration have shaped the city you see today. Expect original photos, architectural insights and thoughtful discussion rather than a rehearsed script. Each tour is relaxed, conversational and designed for anyone curious about design, place-making and how cities evolve.
Departure Point
- We'll meet outside Harvey Nichols, on the terrace area opposite Shambles Square - I usually have a small yellow flag with me.
Please note the pointer on the map might not show the exact location.
Return Details
- We end the tour inside the Royal Exchange (not too far from our starting point) where there are toilets and a small cafe.
Duration
2 hours
Languages Available
- Human tour guide - English
Points of Interest
Stop At: The Shambles
1-3 Cathedral Gates, Manchester
Timber-framed buildings that hint at Manchester’s medieval marketplace.
Duration: 10 minutes
Stop At: Chetham's Library
Long Millgate, Manchester
A medieval charitable foundation still shaping young lives today (we'll walk around the perimeter, but won't go inside the library)
Duration: 15 minutes
Stop At: Royal Exchange Theatre
St. Anns Square, Manchester
From global cotton trading to a single blast that reshaped the city.
Duration: 10 minutes
Stop At: Hanging Bridge
Hanging Bridge, Manchester, England M3
A long-lost river crossing once used by monks, traders, and townsfolk.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: Manchester Cathedral
Victoria Street, Off Deansgate, Manchester
Power, faith, and trade carved into stone at the heart of the town.
Duration: 10 minutes
Additional Information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Insights into Manchester’s architectural and urban evolution
- Small group size for an interactive experience
- Guided walking tour led by a qualified architect
- Follow-up email with key references and recommended reading
- Use of archival maps, photos and diagrams during the tour
Voucher Info
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
The tour identified in this promotion is made available through Viator. Groupon is not affiliated with or sponsored by the Ric Frankland in connection with this deal. Please contact Groupon customer service for all inquiries related to this offer. Inquiries placed to Viator will be directed back to Groupon.
This offer is not eligible for promo codes.
Need To Know Info
14-day cancellation rights do not apply; no refunds or exchanges permitted. Voucher valid only for date and time listed; may not be exchanged or redeemed for other dates. Purchaser name and phone number must be provided at checkout; this information will be shared with Viator and the tour operator for purposes of order fulfillment. Groupon promo codes may not be used for this offer. Groupon voucher Terms of Sale do not apply. See the tour operator's terms and conditions for this offer here.
Offer is not eligible for our promo codes or other discounts.